Windies on top

SHARJAH – A clatter of late wickets in the final hour hurt Pakistan’s momentum and handed West Indies a rare advantage on a topsy-turvy opening day of the third and final Test yesterday.

The hosts, entering the contest at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium with the series already wrapped up, were in command at 230 for four in the final session before suddenly losing four wickets for 25 runs to stumble to the close on 255 for eight.

Pakistan’s slide was triggered by leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo, who picked up three of the four wickets to end with four for 74.

In-form speedster Shannon Gabriel claimed the other wicket to finish with three for 58, as West Indies enjoyed one of their brightest days in an otherwise wretched tour, on which they are yet to win a single game. (CMC)